Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON April 25, 1964
Full News Archive
- Headline: Pushbutton Phones Launch in Queens This May. Impact: The introduction of pushbutton phones sparked a technological revolution, leading to the eventual rise of smartphones. Imagine if someone had told the inventor of the rotary dial that their creation would one day be replaced by an item that fits in your pocket and can also connect you to the internet while you ignore your friends in a cafΓ©.. Fact: Did you know that pushbutton phones were initially met with skepticism? People thought pushing buttons would be as useful as a chocolate teapot!.
- Headline: Continued Battle for California Ballot Inclusion. Impact: This relentless battle to secure a place on the California ballot set a precedent for future political campaigns, making it clear that if you shout loudly enough, you might just get a seat at the table, or at least on the ballot.. Fact: Fun fact: 'Will Continue Fight' is also the title of an unproduced Shakespearean play, rumored to be about political candidates who just won't take a hint..
- Headline: Haitink Conducts Concertgebouw Orchestra. Impact: The success of this concert led to an overwhelming demand for orchestras everywhere, resulting in a world where toddlers now hold mini-concerts in their living rooms with pots and pans, proving that music is truly universal.. Fact: Did you know that Haitink once conducted an orchestra while wearing mismatched socks? Talk about breaking the dress code!.
- Headline: Evergreen Review Seized in Nassau As Being Obscene. Impact: The seizure of Evergreen Review opened the floodgates for debates on censorship, leading to a world where every questionable Instagram post becomes a potential court case. Thanks, Nassau County!. Fact: Did you know that the term 'obscene' is often subjective? What one person finds offensive, another might consider a Tuesday..
- Headline: PONTIFF REVISES COMMUNION RITE; Formula With Dialogue by Priest and Communicant to Be Used Here Today. Impact: This revision of the communion rite shifted the dynamics of church services, allowing for more interaction and engagement, leading to a generation of churchgoers who now expect a Q&A session after the sermon.. Fact: Fun fact: The Pope's dialogue changes were so groundbreaking that they were almost titled 'Communion 2.0: Now with Extra Questions!'.
- Headline: Clothing Woes of Disabled Child Found Easily Solved; Devotee of Design for Handicapped Offers Advice. Impact: This event sparked a movement towards inclusivity in fashion, giving rise to a new industry where clothes are not just for the able-bodied, but for everyoneβbecause why shouldn't fashion be functional?. Fact: Did you know that the first fashion show for handicapped children featured capes? Because who doesnβt want to feel like a superhero while dressing up?.
- Headline: An Invitation to Barnett Canceled by Temple U.. Impact: The cancellation of Barnett's invitation set off a chain reaction of universities reconsidering their guest speakers, ultimately creating a future where every public figure has to pass a 'not too controversial' test before being allowed to speak.. Fact: Fun fact: Barnett's speeches were once described as 'like a roller coaster rideβexciting, but you might regret it afterward.'.
- Headline: French Give $100,000 to Kennedy Memorial Library. Impact: This generous donation solidified diplomatic ties and led to a future where libraries became the ultimate peace offerings, making them the 'go-to' place for international apologies.. Fact: Did you know that $100,000 is the equivalent of approximately 10,000 baguettes? Talk about a tasty contribution!.
- Headline: JERSEY GROUP LOSES FIGHT ON SPRAYING. Impact: The loss of this court fight against aerial spraying set a precedent for environmental activism, inspiring future generations to fight battles over everything from plastic straws to climate change, proving that sometimes losing is just the beginning.. Fact: Did you know that gypsy moths are not actually from Gypsy? Theyβre just really bad at following directions!.
Wall Street Time Machine
DIS
Disney
Disney - If you invested $1,000 in 1964, it would be worth $1,742,743 today (1742.7x return)
CVX
Chevron
Chevron - If you invested $1,000 in 1964, it would be worth $390,209 today (390.2x return)
IBM
IBM
IBM - If you invested $1,000 in 1964, it would be worth $226,736 today (226.7x return)